By the DealDie Team · Published September 23, 2026 · Last updated October 28, 2026
What a beta giveaway gives you
A beta giveaway grants access to an unfinished version of a game for testing. You are not getting the finished game, and access usually ends when the test does. In return you get to play early, influence the game through feedback, and sometimes earn an exclusive cosmetic for taking part.
Closed beta, open beta, and playtests
A closed beta limits the number of players, which is why keys are given away and why they run out. An open beta is available to anyone during a set window, so there is no key to claim; you just download the client. A playtest is a more general term that developers use for short testing sessions, often with a sign-up button where the developer approves players in waves.
Non-disclosure agreements
Some closed tests are under a non-disclosure agreement. That means you agree not to stream, record, or share details publicly. Read the terms before you join; breaking an NDA can get your access revoked and, in some cases, your account restricted.
What happens to your progress
Expect progress to be wiped. Betas exist to test systems, and developers frequently reset characters and inventories before launch. If a beta does carry progress forward, the official announcement will say so explicitly.
Tips for getting into tests
A few habits improve your chances and your experience:
- Claim keys early: closed beta keys are limited and go quickly
- Check system requirements, which can be higher in unoptimized test builds
- Report bugs through the official channel; that is the point of a beta
- Only use official sign-up pages. 'Beta access' is a common scam lure